How Propane Is Used In The Agriculture Industry

Friday, August 31st, 2018

Rural America has used propane in various ways for about 100 years. Today, around 40 percent of Americans in these areas use propane for farming operations and over 50 percent use liquefied petroleum gas in their houses. Over one million gallons of this fuel are used each year. This figure alone points to the fact that propane has other uses beyond powering appliances and heating homes.

Why the agriculture industry uses propane

Most parts of the USA have access to fuel delivery, making it easily available in nearly any rural location. Besides convenience, there are several other reasons why farmers choose this type of fuel for their agricultural needs.

Propane does not require fuel stabilization from one season to the next, which means that it stores well throughout the year. It keeps farm equipment engines clean, extending their useful life and reducing maintenance needs. Known for being a clean fuel, propane produces up to 24 percent less (greenhouse gas) emissions than gasoline 11 percent less than diesel.

Farmers do not have to create or follow an EPA spill prevention plan because propane is a non-toxic fuel. Because of the way it is stored, fuel theft is not much of an issue either. A substantial segment of the United States economy is powered by propane. Domestic production of this product runs at about 98 percent.

A breakdown of propane use

The following are some common uses of propane in an agricultural setting. Whenever and wherever fuel is needed on farms and ranches, you can find ways for it to be supplied by this product.

Heat building

Propane gives power to boilers, radiant heat systems, and specially designed furnaces for greenhouses, livestock, and poultry. The key to why this fuel is the best fit for these situations is found in the clean air and consistent heat it provides.

Engines for irrigation

In all 50 states, EPA and CARB certified propane-powered irrigation engines are available for sale. Leading engine manufacturers have specifically engineered this equipment to be powered by propane. This fuel is dependable and efficient, so it is perfect for long-term use.

Propane powered grain dryers

Its status as a clean fuel means that propane will never contaminate your grain. This product makes it possible for your grain harvesting schedules to be more flexible, and reduces your yield loss. Over 80 percent of grain dryers now use this type of fuel.

Generators and other equipment

Running power independent of the grid, propane generators are used to provide backup power generation and even primary power. LP gas-powered generators are ready to use whenever you need them and they provide a nondegradable, reliable source of power. Forklifts, vehicles, home appliances, and many more items are powered by agricultural propane. If you need this fuel for thermal agriculture, it is available to help you protect your crops from damaging cold.

Consider the benefits of converting to propane

If you are thinking about converting more applications used in your operation to this product, there are many benefits. The cost for new propane engines generally runs 20-40 percent less than comparable diesel engines. The Propane Farm Incentive Program can help you with some of the startup costs of adding new agricultural equipment to your farm if you decide to switch. Certain models of irrigation engines, generators, grain dryers, greenhouse and swine heaters, and flame weed control units have incentives available when you purchase as well.

Your upgrades may also qualify for efficiency programs sponsored by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), through the USDA Rural Energy for America Program. Local agricultural organizations and programs are other places to check for help with maximizing the cost-effectiveness of switching to propane.

With locations in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Louisiana, Kendrick Oil can help your business with its wholesale fuel needs. We distribute a variety of wholesale fuels including propane, regular gas, and diesel. If you have any questions about our Products and Services, please call (800) 299-3991 or Contact Us via email to learn more.